Multiple bomb attacks kill three in southern Thailand

Description:This is the damage after multiple bomb attacks ripped through the southern Thai city of Pattani Five convenience stores were hit. Their shopfronts damaged and glass and products scattered across the floor. Explosives were also detonated outside two petrol stations and a hotel. Another bomb went off at an electricity station, cutting power in one d..(more)

This is the damage after multiple bomb attacks ripped through the southern Thai city of Pattani Five convenience stores were hit. Their shopfronts damaged and glass and products scattered across the floor. Explosives were also detonated outside two petrol stations and a hotel. Another bomb went off at an electricity station, cutting power in one district for as long as 40 minutes. Gunmen also opened fire on a navy ship, a short distance from the shore. Several people were killed in these attacks and scores were wounded. Officials suspect that Muslim separatists are responsible for the attack. Thailand is a mainly Buddhist country except for the three most southern provinces, which are mainly Muslim. The south has long been plagued by resistance to central government rule. Separatist rebels are staging a campaign for greater autonomy and over the last decade more than 5,700 people have been killed, caught up in the violence.